The cosmic anticipation is over. Nintendo has officially announced that two of Mario`s most acclaimed adventures, Super Mario Galaxy and Super Mario Galaxy 2, are set to land on the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2. Gamers can mark their calendars for October 2, as the beloved plumber prepares for another journey through the stars, now with a fresh coat of paint and the promise of new hardware capabilities.
A Double Dose of Galactic Grandeur
The news, unveiled during the latest Nintendo Direct livestream, confirmed what many fans have hoped for: a complete return for the Wii-era masterpieces. Both titles will be available on the Nintendo Switch 2, offering players the choice of either a single bundle priced at $70 USD or purchasing each game individually for $40 USD. This marks a significant moment, especially for fans of the sequel.
While the original Super Mario Galaxy saw a re-release as part of the Super Mario 3D All-Stars collection for the Nintendo Switch in 2020 (a bundle that has since departed, in typical Nintendo fashion, like a comet fading from view), Super Mario Galaxy 2 has remained elusive since its initial 2010 debut on the Wii. Its inclusion in this new release on the Switch 2 is a particular highlight, ensuring that a generation of players can experience this highly-regarded sequel, often cited by critics and fans alike as one of the best platformers ever made.
The 40th Anniversary Celebration: More Than Just Games
These stellar re-releases are not just standalone ports; they are integral components of the grand Super Mario 40th Anniversary celebration. Nintendo is pulling out all the stops to honor its iconic mascot, with a slate of announcements that extend beyond the gaming console:
- Super Mario Galaxy Movie: A new animated feature, creatively titled the Super Mario Galaxy Movie, was teased just before the game announcement. This cinematic venture is scheduled to hit theaters in April 2026, suggesting a significant narrative expansion within the galactic lore.
- Super Mario Bros. Wonder Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Meetup in Bellabel Park: A unique offering for a beloved recent title, promising enhancements for the new console and an intriguing “Meetup” component.
- Mario Tennis Fever: A new entry in the long-running sports series, undoubtedly bringing more competitive fun to the Mushroom Kingdom.
- Yoshi and the Mysterious Book: A brand-new adventure starring Mario`s faithful dinosaur companion, indicating that the 40th Anniversary block is truly a comprehensive celebration of the entire Super Mario universe.
It seems Nintendo`s strategy for celebrating four decades of Super Mario involves a blend of cherished nostalgia and fresh, innovative experiences. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of these characters that revisiting past triumphs can generate as much excitement as brand new reveals.
Beyond the Mushroom Kingdom: Switch 2`s Expanding Horizon
The latest Nintendo Direct wasn`t solely focused on Mario, however. It also provided a glimpse into the broader software lineup for the Nintendo Switch 2, solidifying the console`s strong early release schedule. Significant third-party titles are also making their way to the new platform:
- Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade: The enhanced version of Square Enix`s critically acclaimed remake is slated for a January 22 release on the Switch 2.
- Hades 2: The highly anticipated sequel to the roguelike phenomenon will also arrive on the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition on September 25.
These announcements underscore a promising launch window for the Nintendo Switch 2, indicating that the console aims to deliver a diverse library of both first-party heavyweights and compelling third-party experiences right from the start.
With Super Mario Galaxy and Super Mario Galaxy 2 leading the charge for the 40th Anniversary festivities, alongside a host of other exciting titles, October 2 is shaping up to be a monumental day for Nintendo fans. The return to the cosmos promises to be a nostalgic treat for veterans and a breathtaking new journey for those discovering these masterpieces for the first time on the Nintendo Switch 2.
Ellis Thorne 
Gareth Fenton